Understanding key genes in the bacteria that cause pneumonia
Evolvable essentiality in the pan-genome of Streptococcus pneumoniae and its mechanistic and evolutionary consequences
This work explores how the essential genes of the bacteria *Streptococcus pneumoniae* change across different strains, which could help us find new ways to fight infections.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169274 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking closely at the genes within *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, a common cause of pneumonia, to understand why some genes are always present and vital for the bacteria's survival, while others can vary. Even though these 'essential' genes are usually thought to be unchangeable, our findings suggest they can differ between bacterial strains. By studying these differences, we hope to uncover new weaknesses in the bacteria. This knowledge could lead to better treatments for infections caused by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit anyone susceptible to or suffering from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* infections.
Not a fit: Patients without *Streptococcus pneumoniae* infections or those not affected by bacterial pathogens would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for developing more effective antibiotics or therapies against *Streptococcus pneumoniae* infections.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of essential genes is established, this approach of computationally and experimentally interrogating thousands of diverse clinical strains to reveal 'evolvable essentiality' is a novel and promising direction.
Where this research is happening
Memphis, United States
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital — Memphis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rosch, Jason W. — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Rosch, Jason W.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.